A shooting at Murray’s Wheeler Historic Farm Tuesday evening sent one person to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries as police search for multiple suspects who fled the scene.
The incident occurred around 6:45 p.m. when a group of individuals met near the northeast corner of the popular 75-acre public park and working farm, according to Murray City Police Department spokesperson Kristin Reardon.
Shots Fired During Group Meeting
The shooting took place after a group of people gathered near the northeast section of Wheeler Historic Farm. At some point during the meeting, shots were fired, resulting in one person sustaining injuries serious enough to require hospitalization.
Reardon confirmed that the victim’s injuries are not considered life-threatening. The victim was transported to a local hospital for treatment, though police have not released additional information about the individual’s condition or identity.
The circumstances that led to the shooting remain under investigation. Police have not disclosed whether the meeting was prearranged or what may have prompted the gunfire.
Brief Shelter-in-Place Issued
Following the shooting, Murray City Police issued a brief shelter-in-place order for Wheeler Historic Farm as officers secured the scene and searched for suspects. The precautionary measure was lifted after authorities determined there was no continuing threat to the public.
The shelter-in-place would have affected any visitors at the historic farm, which remains open to the public daily from dawn to dusk. The farm typically hosts families, school groups, and individuals visiting the farm animals, walking the trails, or touring the Victorian-era farmhouse.
Suspects Remain at Large
As of Tuesday evening, Murray City Police had not made any arrests connected to the shooting. Multiple suspects fled the scene before officers arrived, and authorities were actively searching for those responsible.
Despite the ongoing search for suspects, Reardon emphasized that police believe there is no threat to the public. This assessment suggests investigators believe the shooting was a targeted incident rather than a random act of violence.
Police have not released descriptions of the suspects or information about potential vehicles that may have been involved. The department continues gathering evidence and interviewing potential witnesses who may have been at the farm during the incident.
Popular Community Destination
Wheeler Historic Farm serves as one of Murray’s most beloved community resources. The Salt Lake County Parks and Recreation facility operates as both a working farm and historical site, welcoming visitors year-round at no admission charge to explore the grounds.
The 75-acre property features farm animals including cows, horses, sheep, chickens, and pigs, along with extensive walking trails, a playground, and the historic Wheeler farmhouse constructed in 1898. The farm has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1976.
Located at 6351 South 900 East in Murray, the farm attracts thousands of visitors annually for seasonal events, farmers markets, wagon rides, and educational programs. The facility operates under the oversight of Salt Lake County Parks and Recreation in partnership with Utah State University’s agricultural outreach programs.
The farm typically remains busy during evening hours when temperatures cool and families visit to see the animals and enjoy the grounds. Tuesday evening would have been a typical time for visitors despite the approaching winter season.
Investigation Continues
Murray City Police detectives are working to piece together the sequence of events that led to the shooting. Investigators will likely review any available security camera footage from the farm or nearby properties that might have captured images of the suspects or their vehicles.
Anyone who was at Wheeler Historic Farm Tuesday evening around 6:45 p.m. and witnessed the shooting or observed individuals fleeing the area is urged to contact Murray City Police. The department can be reached at its non-emergency number, 801-840-4000.
Tips can also be submitted anonymously through the Murray City Police Department’s online reporting system or by contacting dispatch and requesting to speak with detectives investigating the case.
The shooting represents an unusual incident for Wheeler Historic Farm, which typically serves as a peaceful family destination rather than a location associated with criminal activity. The contrast between the farm’s mission as an educational and recreational resource and the violence that occurred Tuesday evening has likely shocked regular visitors and the surrounding Murray community.
Community Safety Reassurance
While the incident naturally raises concerns about safety at public parks and recreation areas, Murray City Police’s assessment that there is no ongoing threat to the public should provide some reassurance to community members.
The determination that the shooting poses no continuing public threat typically indicates that investigators have information suggesting the incident involved specific individuals rather than random violence against park visitors.
As the investigation progresses, police will work to identify and apprehend those responsible for the shooting. The quick response by Murray City Police and the brief shelter-in-place order demonstrated the department’s commitment to public safety even as they pursue suspects who had already fled the scene.
Wheeler Historic Farm is expected to resume normal operations, though increased police presence may be noticeable in the coming days as the investigation continues.
